Orlando Pirates have a sturdy spine that could steer them to Betway Premiership glory for the first time since 2012.
Their central options stand out.
Let’s take a look.
Central midfield options at Orlando Pirates
Youngster Camran Dansin announced himself to South African football with a screamer of a goal against Sundowns. That left-footed volley was the work of a skilled technician who’s learned the game as a deeper-lying midfield operator. Now, he’s been shifted into the number 10 role. All of these players provide depth for Pirates in the engine room:
- Makhehleni Makhaula, 35
- Sihle Nduli, 30
- Thalente Mbatha, 25
- Sipho Mbule, 27
- Simphiwe Selepe, 20
- Masindi Nemtajela, 24
- Abdoulaye Mariko, 22
- Cemran Dansin, 20
Central defensive options at Pirates
It’s often a ‘too many cooks spoil the broth’ situation when a manager has several players vying for the same role in his team. However, with injuries to Thabiso Sesane and Olisa Ndah, the emergence of the young pairing of Mbekezeli Mbokazi and Lebone Seema has been a timely godsend. When Sesane returns, coach Ouaddou will have some big decisions to make.
- Nkosinathi Sibisi, 30
- Tapelo Xoki, 30
- Olisa Ndah, 27
- Thabiso Sesane, 25
- Lebone Seema, 22
- Mbekezeli Mbokazi, 20
What’s next in the league?
The Sea Robbers are second in the league, three points adrift of leaders Sundowns. However, Abdeslam Ouaddou’s men have two games in hand. Their next test is a home match with Chippa on Saturday, 22 November at 15:30.
Mofokeng’s been a slow burner for Orlando Pirates this term
After dazzling in recent seasons, 2025-2026 has been one of the first hurdles for 21-year-old Relebohile Mofokeng to negotiate. The star wide player, who also excels in the number 10 role, has yet to score for the Buccaneers this season, and he has just a single assist. Form is temporary and class is permanent, however. Rele already has 42 direct goal contributions after 102 outings for the Sea Robbers.
